X Cryptbergia Bromeliad Hybrid

Author: Celeste Booth2 Comments

Care and Culture, Classification

Cryptanthus have been crossed with Billbergia and the resulting hybrids are intermediate in habit between the two genera.

One of the most common in cultivation, probably because it is so easy to grow, is X Cryptbergia rubra. It forms a stiff rosette about 9 inches (23cm) across of 20-30 hard, tapering leaves that are glossy mahogany-red on top and silvery grey on the underside. Small flowers appear from the central tank. Offsets are produced on short stolons and may be divided in the spring season. It likes peat and sand compost with regular feeding at every third watering and very bright light – almost full sun. A temperature of 45 degrees F (7 degrees C) does not trouble this plant at all.